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Experiential Learning

What is the University of Dayton's Experiential Learning Guarantee?

At the University of Dayton, every undergraduate completes at least one high-impact experiential learning opportunity before graduation — guaranteed. 

And with our Marianist approach to experiential learning —  prepare, immerse, reflect and assess — you won’t just collect experiences to list on a résumé. You’ll learn how to make meaning from them, connect them to your goals, build your skills and confidence, and carry what you’ve learned into the world.


Learning in Action

Student Peter DeSocio working at a microscope in a lab.

Figuring Out Fungi link-arrow link-arrow

A junior pre-med major is working with a team of researchers to understand how fungi are eating through the polymer coating in planes.
Paige Kremer wears a Ferguson Construction hard hat while holding a camera on a marketing co-op site visit

From Competition to Career link-arrow link-arrow

Through classes, a national marketing competition and a co-op, Paige learned skills that translate to the real-world.
Zay Min Htike on a Green Roof

Turning Data into Decisions link-arrow link-arrow

As an Energy Fellow, Zay Min Htike used his analytics knowledge to help the City of Dayton reduce electricity consumption.

Cultivating Joy in the Classroom link-arrow link-arrow

Through student teaching, one senior builds powerful relationships in the classroom to aid student success.
UD students at Reach Out health clinic

Caring for the Community link-arrow link-arrow

By working with professionals at Reach Out health clinics, UD students develop their competency and compassion.
Ja’Brina Hargrave-Perkins analyzes samples in biology lab

Boxing and Biology link-arrow link-arrow

As an undergrad, Ja’Brina Hargrave-Perkins is conducting research on a topic that has puzzled researchers.

Dayton: Where Careers Tip Off link-arrow link-arrow

The First Four brings more than basketball to UD Arena. It also gives UD students hands-on experience covering a national event.

Walking with the World link-arrow link-arrow

Through an immersive experience in Kenya, University of Dayton education students are discovering how global experiences can shape local classrooms.
Researcher Taylor Nicely presenting a study on Jet Fuel Dielectric Constant and Fuel System Icing Inhibitors at a research event.

From Classroom to Career link-arrow link-arrow

The UDRI Internship Program provides students with direct experience at a national leader in research innovation.

How Can UD Undergraduates Gain Hands-On Experience?

Internships and Co-ops

Through internships and co-ops, you'll take on real-world challenges while building your skills and confidence. More than 30,000 internships and co-op positions are published in Handshake annually.

Explore Internships and Co-Ops

Education Abroad and Away

Want to learn in London? Research in Rome? Ponder in Panama City? UD has many options for you to expand your perspective, strengthen your résumé and help you compete in the global marketplace.

Explore Global Opportunities

Research

Flyers can engage with cutting-edge research as undergrads. You'll build important research skills, work closely with faculty and campus researchers, and possibly even get your name on a patent or research publication!

Explore Research

Performance-Based Learning

The Roger Glass Center for the Arts elevates the arts on campus and provides students with opportunities to take center stage through concerts, dance and theater performances, and visual art exhibits.

Explore the Arts at UD

Leadership Programs

You can develop your leadership skills and prepare for a successful future through intentional, immersive leadership programs, student organizations, and peer education and mentorship programs.

Explore Student Involvement

Find Your Calling

Hands-on learning doesn't just prepare you for a successful career. It also allows you to explore your interests, find your passion and purpose in life, and use your gifts and talents in a meaningful way.

Explore Vocation and Service
Why Do Employers Hire UD Graduates?
A UD education sets Flyers apart in today's job market. You'll graduate with the skills, experience and empathy needed to soar into a successful future. Because Flyers are "day one ready," top companies regularly recruit on campus.
Explore Outcomes
Explore Career Services
FAQ

Does the University of Dayton guarantee experiential learning for undergraduates?

Yes. Every undergraduate will complete at least one high-impact experiential learning opportunity — such as an internship, co-op, mentored research, service / community-engaged learning, or study abroad experience — prior to graduation.

What is the difference between a co-op and an internship?

In general, internships are part-time or full-time work experiences that occur at any point during the year. They can be paid or unpaid, and students may continue taking classes during the internship. Co-ops are typically full-time, paid work experiences. For these positions, students alternate a semester of study with a semester of work.

Learn More About Co-Ops and Internships

How do students learn about experiential learning opportunities?

Students can explore and apply for experiential learning opportunities through the Flyer Connection platform. Holistic advisors can help guide students to opportunities that align with their goals, and Career Services supports students with résumé critiques, mock interviews and more. Students and alumni can also search for opportunities on Handshake, UD's job search platform; more than 30,000 internships and co-op positions and 125,000 total job postings are published on Handshake annually.

What is Flyer Connection?

Flyer Connection is UD's hub for experiential learning, where you can discover opportunities for research, community engagement, leadership, internships and more. Through Flyer Connection, you can also learn about different industries and jobs, get resume advice and connect with a mentor through the Alumni Mentoring Program.

How do undergraduates get involved in research at UD?

Undergraduate students at the University of Dayton have numerous research opportunities, including faculty-mentored research, the arts and sciences summer fellowship, engineering summer research experiences and FYRE. Students often present their findings at the annual Stander Symposium and co-author published scientific papers.

Explore Research at UD

What is community-engaged learning (CEL)?

Community-engaged learning is a way for students to use their classroom knowledge to address real-world problems while collaborating with community partners.